PURPOSE OF POSITION

To perform a variety of routine and complex laboratory procedures using standard and specialized techniques, instrumentation, and equipment on a wide variety of biological specimens to assist the physician in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. To exercise professional judgment to recognize, prioritize, and facilitate varying test requests and workload in an efficient manner. To assume responsibility and accountability for accuracy of procedures performed.

RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS

Specimen Processing

• Assists accessioning as needed to input specimen collection and receipt information into the lab information system
• Assists in the centrifugation and aliquoting of specimens adhering to established procedures
• Verifies that specimens meet the individual test requirements prior to testing
• Refers unusual test requests and questions regarding specimen acceptability to the Technical Specialist, Unit Director or section Pathologist
• Assists in the registration of ALS and/or draw station patients as needed

Specimen Testing

• Successfully operates available instrumentation for testing purposes
• Recognizes deviations from expected results and notifies Technical Specialist and/or Unit Director
• Uses alternate method (s) when applicable to ensure accurate results when interfering substances are present
• Follows the written departmental procedure (s) when performing all testing
• Organizes work during heavy workload period
• Performs several tasks simultaneously as needed
• Responds to STAT requests according to established protocol
• Remains aware of the overall work activity so that help can be rendered to other areas as needed
• Enters results manually into the lab information system

Quality Control

• Performs quality control procedures as required by CAP and departmental protocol
• Analyzes QC results and determines the acceptability of the QC
• Recognizes QC trends and communicates any concerns to Technical Specialist and/or Unit Director

• Properly documents when QC is outside of the established guidelines for acceptability and takes appropriate corrective action according to established procedures
• Participates in process improvement projects and Lab QA meetings when requested

Continuing Education

• Refers to the procedure manual for technical information to aid in decision making.
• Reviews department bulletin board daily, if applicable
• Reviews procedures yearly relative to the scope of testing
• Participates in technical workshops, seminars, and other continuing education when possible
• Documents continuing education and forwards to the Unit Director for placement in the employee's file

Equipment Maintenance

• Instrument preventative maintenance is performed according to department guidelines and manufacturer specifications to insure proper equipment operation

• Consistently follows prescribed maintenance procedures without "short cuts"
• Identifies and investigates instrument problems according to instrument trouble-shooting guidelines
• Calls manufacturer's "hotline" when necessary and notifies the Technical Specialist and/or Unit Director when service is required
• Maintains all records pertaining to preventative and emergency maintenance according to department protocols

Reagents and Supplies

• Receives, properly labels, and stores in-coming supplies, reagents, and controls
• Maintains an adequate amount of supplies, reagents, and controls in work area (s)
• Prepares reagents and controls according to established procedures
• Notifies Technical Specialist when inventory of item (s) appears low or has been depleted

Safety

• Follows Universal Precautions at all times

• Reads and follows Hospital safety and infection control guidelines
• Reads and follows Laboratory safety and infection control guidelines
• Participates in fire drills as required
• Completes any Laboratory safety education as assigned
• Uses the Tools & Tones for High Reliability to promote a culture of safety

Professionalism and Communication

• Accepts responsibilities and maintains an attitude conducive to a cooperative and productive work environment

• Adheres to all policies described in the Aultman Hospital Code of Conduct and Employee Handbook
• Follows all policies of the Pathology Department as described in the Lab Policy Manual.
• Communicates with all persons in a polite and professional manner
• Adheres to the hospital dress code and maintains a professional appearance
• Arrives at work on time and begins work promptly
• Returns promptly from lunch and breaks, following established guidelines
• Uses spare time for work-related activities
• Assists the Technical Specialists in the training of personnel when requested
• Performs necessary duties and tasks as assigned by the Technical Specialist or Unit Director

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Department Hours: 6:30a-4:30p M-F Closed on Weekends and Holidays
• Work hours are assigned by the Assistant Manager and/or Technical Specialist and can be on any shift depending upon the staffing needs of the department
• Requires Saturday rotation
• Requires occasional paid overtime before or after normal working hours, if approved
• Works in a well-lighted and ventilated laboratory

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS ADDENDUM

PURPOSE: To identify specific functions job requirements and work environment factors that could affect job performance.

O = Occasionally = 0- 33% of the work shift or 0- 32 repetitions.

F = Frequently = 34-66% of the work shift or 32-200+ repetitions.

C = Constantly = 67-100% of the work shift or 200+ repetitions.

N = Not essential job requirement.

F Standing

F Walking

N Lifting (20-50 pounds)

N Carrying (20-50 pounds)

N Pushing (70 pounds)

N Climbing with (20-50 pounds)

O Stooping/Bending

O Twisting/Turning

N Kneeling/Squatting

N Crawling

O Reaching Up/Reaching Forward

Additional information concerning physical requirements for the position:

None